Ep 408 Ageless Shoulders: Restoring Strength & Stability the Ancient Way ft. Zach Zenios
Description
In this episode of the Strong By Design podcast, Coach Chris Wilson sits down with Coach Zach Zenios—licensed neurosomatic therapist, yoga instructor, US Marine and lifelong movement coach—to talk all things shoulder health, healing, and Indian clubs.
We kick things off by exploring Zach’s unique background and the origin of his passion for Indian club training. From the anatomy of the human shoulder to the difference between raw strength and true functionality, Zach breaks down what most people get wrong about shoulder training.
He also shares his personal “2-step formula” for shoulder pain relief, plus the overlooked connection between relaxation, barefoot training, and nervous system reset. Around the 30-minute mark, we get into aesthetics, movement quality, and how club training actually builds a more capable, athletic-looking body.
As the conversation deepens, Zach opens up about the creation of the Ageless Shoulders program, what makes it different, and why Indian clubs offer a timeless solution for stiff, aging joints. We even dive into his bold personal experiments—like dry fasting—and how they’ve impacted his recovery, energy, and mindset. Whether you’re in pain, getting older, or just want to train smarter, this episode delivers the knowledge and inspiration to help you move, feel, and live better.
Time Stamps
0:43 - Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast!
3:02 - Get to know today's special guest, neurosomatic therapist and yoga coach Zach Zenios
10:00 - The power of Indian club training
12:32 - How unique the human shoulder is
16:07 – The importance of good dynamic movement
18:24 - Coach Zach reveals his Indian clubs training secret
21:30 - Discover the right way to train shoulders - no isolation!
25:22 - Are you strong or just muscular?
28:50 - Aesthetic gains through club training
32:33 – Understanding relaxation vs. tension
37:02 – Why Indian clubs offer unique benefits
42:00 – Pros and cons of doing a dead hang
44:53 - What's the 2-step formula for shoulder pain
47:48 – How going barefoot can benefit you
49:39 - Why consistency is the key
51:42 – A closer look at Coach Zach’s routine
57:38 – Beyond the basics: Detailed Indian club benefits
1:03:48 – Inside the Ageless Shoulders program
1:09:13 – Coach Zach’s experience with a 5-day dry fast
1:11:58 - How to stay connected with Coach Zach
1:12:28 - Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast!
Resources:
Connect with Coach Zach:
Connect with Coach Chris:
Visit CriticalBench.com and click 'AGELESS SHOULDERS' in the upper right corner of the page!
Connect w/ CriticalBench:
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